Getting Started with Canvas
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Browser Should I Use?
Don't use Microsoft's Internet Explorer to access Canvas — you will just get frustrated!
To make sure all features will work, use Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome with Canvas. Microsoft Internet Explorer causes problems with assignment submissions. And while Canvas works most of the time in Safari, that browser has issues with many accessibility features like the Immersive Reader. If you're using Safari and random weird things happen in Canvas — switch to Chrome and you'll be safe.
Is There a Canvas App?
Canvas has a free app for Android and iPhone that normally works a lot better than accessing Canvas through the Web browser on your phone. Please visit the guide on using Canvas on a mobile device Links to an external site. for more information.
Note: Do not take quizzes by using the mobile app. Not all quiz settings or question types are compatible with the mobile app yet.
How Do I Get to My Classes?
Go to the SMCCCD Student Portal Links to an external site. (quick tip: know your SMCCCD student email address? Just type in everything after the @ and you'll get to the Portal). Among other cool things like access to your student Gmail account and free Microsoft Office downloads, you'll find a link to the SMCCCD Canvas login page. It looks like this:
Click "Visit Canvas" and you'll be on a page where you can enter your user name (the first part of your student email address, without the @my.smccd.edu) and your password, which should be the same as your email password. If that doesn't work, then you need to set a new password for Canvas only.
How Do I Set My Notifications?
Do you want a text notification when your Instructor grades your assignment? Do you want an email sent to your Gmail account when a due date changes? Do you want these notifications ASAP or only once a day? Canvas allows you to set things up exactly the way you want them so take advantage of it! Click on Account (your photo) then select Notifications. Please visit the Canvas guide on setting preferences Links to an external site. for more information.